What Color Should Your Data Racks Be?

When designing a data center, the question of what color the server racks should be does not always come up. That’s because most people think server racks only come in one color - your basic black color. But when you have the customization capabilities that we do at GAW Technology, adding color to racks is not only possible, it can be quite advantageous too. 

Here are 4 reasons why some of our clients have opted to use colored racks to manage their network equipment. 

1. Distinguishes data center facility power chain. Colored racks help operators identify which power chain supplies power to each section of servers in your center. 

2. Mapping by color assists technicians. Colorized sections make it easier for technicians to keep track of maintenance or work in trouble-spots. For instance, it’s easier for technicians to work on sections by color (green, blue, yellow, or red), as opposed to endless row numbers. 

3. White cabinets for energy savings. White leverages reflection better than black. This helps with heat dispersing, a critical concern for datacenter management. The eye is also better able to see dust on white cabinets, which is important in data center maintenance. Dust can harm servers and sensitive storage equipment, which could result in unplanned downtime. 

4. Overall appeal. Colorizing racks allows operators to utilize their company’s color scheme, which helps distinguish themselves in the industry and promote branding. 

While some rack companies may use color stickers to affix on their products, GAW Technology uses the RAL color system, which is a production color matching system that defines colors for paint, coatings and plastics. 

RAL stands for “Reichs-Ausschuß für Liefer­bedingungen und Güte­sicherung.” In English, this German term means: National Commission for Delivery Terms and Quality Assurance. 

While there is an additional cost associated with such products, GAW works with clients to first identify the true need for such customization and also explore options to make sure these products are cost-effective. 

If you would like to know more about how colored cabinets can increase the productivity and improve energy efficiency in your data centers, contact GAW Technology today for more information.